Revive A Sunnah: Gifts and Gifting

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

As I journey towards Ihsan, I decided to not only focus on the knowledge of the Qur’an but to study the Seerah. You know, get to really know the Man (SAW) who lived the Quran. I came across this.

The Prophet (SAW) said:

“Whoever revives my Sunnah then he has loved me. And whoever loved me, he shall be with me in Paradise.” [Tirmidhi]

 ….And the idea was born: To start “A Revive A Sunnah” series on the blog.

Revive A Sunnah 1: Gifts and Gifting

 

Is there someone you want to get closer to because of the influence they have in your life or Deen, someone your offended and want to make it right, or you want to make your spouse’s day or that of someone you just love for the sake of Allah? Let’s do it the Sunnah way.

Abu Hurayrah reported that the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said, “Give gifts and you will love one another.”

 I love to receive gifts! Don’t we all? How about giving? At least the one who gave you would also love to receive. Imagine the feeling you get when you receive a thoughtful gift; now imagine making your loved ones feel like that… Bliss!

When giving gifts, one does not need to be extravagant. Little things like a pen, a book, a snack or a bar of chocolate would go a long way.

There is a difference between charity and gifts. in the words of Ibn Taymiyyah (R), charity is given to the poor and needy, with the intention to seek the pleasure of Allah. It can be given to any poor or needy person. A gift may be given to a rich or poor person with an intention to show friendship, love or just honour the recipient

The moment you hand over the gift, all your claim on it is gone, it no longer belongs to you. It is for the one receiving it, and they can do whatever they want with it– keep it, display it, store it, give it away or throw it away

Aishah narrated:

“The Prophet would accept gifts and he would give something in return.”

We should not invalidate our gifts or charity by reminding people of what we have given them.

O you who have believed, do not invalidate your charities with reminders or injury as does one who spends his wealth [only] to be seen by the people and does not believe in Allah and the Last Day. His example is like that of a [large] smooth stone upon which is dust and is hit by a downpour that leaves it bare. They are unable [to keep] anything of what they have earned. And Allah does not guide the disbelieving people. [2:264]

Give gifts and appreciate the gifts you receive. It is the thought that counts.

May we be among those who love the Prophet (SAW). Aameen.

 

Thank you for reading. Please feel free to share.

 

What are some of the things you love to receive as gifts?